10 Biggest Gaming Releases for August

If the month of July was slow for new releases, then August is almost a complete standstill. We're in some good company, though, as Microsoft continues its Summer of Arcade for Xbox 360 owners, there's the first new Rugby World Cup game in years, while the hotly-anticipated Deus Ex: Human Revolution graces us in the final week.

Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet

Release date: August 3 (worldwide)Platforms: Xbox Live Arcade

The Summer of Arcade continues with an action-oriented exploration title in the same vein as Metroid and Castlevania. As a spaceship, the player must explore a vast and dangerous alien planet, with new routes opening up as new items and weapons - such as a claw and raygun - are acquired.

May's Mysteries: The Secret of Dragonville

Release date: August 5 (Europe)Platforms: Nintendo DS

A puzzle adventure title in the vein of Professor Layton, May's Mysteries: The Secret of Dragonville offers over 270 mini-games and puzzles from a variety of genres, including hidden object and rhythm action.

Based on the best-selling iPhone title, this has players slice and dice fruit using the Kinect peripheral instead of a touch-screen. It offers the same Classic, Zen and Arcade modes as its mobile counterpart, along with new multiplayer Party and Challenge modes. As well as being a Summer of Arcade release, it'll be packaged with The Gunstringer later this year.

The final Summer of Arcade release is a follow-up to successful Xbox Live Arcade release Toy Soldiers. A what-if scenario where the US and USSR escalate into war, this tower defense title includes new vehicles such as fighter jets and helicopters, as well as co-operative play and a survival mode.

From Dust

Release date: August 17 (worldwide)Platforms: PC

Described as a "fantastic game and another reason to embrace digital downloads" in our five-star review, From Dust is the latest game from Eric Chahi, the creative force behind cult 16-bit platformer Another World. Players assume the role of a god who must sculpt landscapes to guide a tribe to their destination, and protect them from harsh elements such as lava and tsunamis.

Usually left in the cold when it comes to Japanese role-playing releases, European gamers have caught a break with the release of Xenoblade Chronicles, which has failed to secure a release in the US. Developed by Monolith Soft, it's notable for its focus on freedom in gameplay and not story and cutscenes, and features a Final Fantasy XII-styled battle system.

The first Deus Ex game since 2003, Human Revolution is a prequel to the role-playing series, looking out the origins of augmentation technology in the near future. Open-ended progression involving stealth, conversational and all-out action options will be available, as are extensive ability customisation and a lavish science-fiction story.

This retail title is a collection of Pac-Man and Galaga's greatest hits. As well as the original arcade versions for each, there's the critically-acclaimed Pac-Man Championship Edition, Xbox Live Arcade title Galaga Legions, and the all-new Galaga 3D Impact and Pac-Man Tilt.

Inazuma Eleven

Release date: August 26 (UK, Ireland)Platforms: Nintendo DS

The acclaimed football series from Professor Layton developer Level-5 finally makes its way to the UK. Featuring a blend of sports and role-playing elements, players must choose between 1,000 players who can perform power spins, sky kicks and teleportation. As well as full 11-player team matches, there are specific four-on-four challenges to complete.

Rugby World Cup 2011

Release date: August 26 (Europe)Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3

The first official Rugby World Cup game since 1995, Rugby World Cup 2011 is developed by the same team as Rugby series HB Studios, and will feature 20 participating teams, online multiplayer and the official England, Wales and Scotland licences.